Skin Patch for Peanut Allergy Shows Promise

After one year, an ongoing clinical trial suggests that a skin patch for treating peanut allergies is safe and somewhat effective—especially for younger children. Peanut allergies are a rising health concern—prevalence has increased significantly over the past decade. Just a trace amount of peanut protein can cause a serious, possibly life-threatening, reaction in some people with peanut allergies.

The clinical trial, which is sponsored by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases of the NIH, involves 74 participants between the ages of four and 25. For the study, each participant applies a patch containing a high dose of peanut protein, a low dose of peanut protein, or a placebo, every day.

According to researchers, 48 percent of participants who received high-dose treatment, 46 percent of those who received a low dose, and 12 percent who received a placebo were able to tolerate 10 times more peanut protein than at the start of the study. Children between the ages of four and 11 experienced the best results. Testing of the patch, which is not approved by the FDA, will continue.

Cranberries: Not a Cure for UTI

Though delicious and high in vitamin C, cranberries and cranberry juice are not the answer when it comes to curing or preventing urinary tract infections. Touted as a UTI remedy for centuries, considerable research about the potential benefits has been done.

Some of these studies have suggested that cranberries can help reduce the risk for repeat infections. Others have found the berries contain a substance that prevents bacteria from adhering to the lining of the urinary tract. But according to the results of a recent study and an editorial published in JAMA, there is no proven benefit.

UTIs are more common in women—up to 50 percent of women will have at least one—and in older men. Infections can cause fever, fatigue, and malaise. Treatment involves rest, pain relievers, and antibiotics. It also helps to stay well-hydrated. Perhaps that’s where the cranberry juice comes in.

Election Nears, Here Are Top Health Concerns

As Americans are heading to the polls (where early voting is available) or getting ready to cast their vote, the rising costs of Obamacare have been in the news. However, according to a new survey, the subject of health care is not likely to determine the outcome of the election.

In the Kaiser Health Tracking Poll for October, health care was identified as the fifth most important issue for registered Democrats, and the sixth most important for Republicans. When asked about health-care-related priorities, more people mentioned reducing prescription drug costs, making sure health care plans have enough doctors in-network, and protecting consumers from high expenses related to out-of-network care than repealing or changing the Affordable Care Act.

According to this latest survey, 45 percent of people have a favorable opinion of Obamacare and the same percentage have an unfavorable opinion. This issue remains a partisan one. Most people surveyed say they understand Hillary Clinton’s plan for health care, while half say they understand Donald Trump’s.